Today, plastic surgeons perform an estimated 8.3 million minimally invasive cosmetic treatments annually, while dermatologists, otolaryngologists, ophthalmologists and other medical specialists perform millions more. In fact, according to the American Society for Plastic Surgeons, the number of nonsurgical aesthetic treatments has jumped 84 percent between 2002 and 2006.
A 2006 Harris Interactive survey of 800 American women aged 35 to 69 found that women would like to look an average of 13 years younger. The survey also found that 78 percent of women expect aesthetic treatments to leave them with a natural-looking, refreshed appearance; that 75 percent are concerned about the expense of such treatments; and that 65 percent are concerned that the treatments don't last long enough.
Ninety-one percent of women polled in a Harris survey said they would go to a health professional for information about the treatments (mainly a dermatologist or plastic surgeon), while 96 percent thought it was extremely or very important for trained professionals to administer injectables.
Even something as simple as a chemical peel carries potential risks, particularly when performed by someone not properly trained in the treatment. A 2001 survey of 2,500 members of the American Society of Dermatologic Surgeons found that 45 percent of the society's members said they were seeing much higher numbers of patients who needed botched cosmetic treatments corrected. All had been performed by nonphysicians.
Insurance rarely, if ever, covers the cost of cosmetic treatments.
Few treatments are permanent. Most will need to be repeated within a few months or a few years.
Just because a health care provider offers a treatment doesn't mean that person is qualified to perform the treatment. Ask for references, talk to patients and confirm certifications. Plastic surgeons and dermatologists are the most qualified professionals available to provide most nonsurgical aesthetic treatments.
It is very important that you have realistic expectations about the treatment you choose. Ask your doctor to show you before-and-after photos of patients he/she has treated. Also ask how long the effects will last, how many treatments you may require and how many vials or syringes will be required if you're receiving Botox Cosmetic or dermal fillers.
Only licensed healthcare professionals can purchase Botox Cosmetic, although some states allow nonphysicians such as registered nurses or physician assistants to administer the drug if they are directly supervised by a physician. Most Botox Cosmetic injections are administered by plastic surgeons or dermatologists, although any physician with special training in facial anatomy may perform Botox Cosmetic injections. When your doctor shows you the vial, look for the hologram, which authenticates the product.
Dermal fillers are injectable products that fill fine lines and plump up wrinkles to provide a smoother, younger look. They are among the most popular nonsurgical cosmetic treatments. The fillers are injected directly into wrinkles and lines. You pay by the syringe, and several syringes may be required, so ask your doctor for an estimated total cost before beginning your treatment. Also note that different fillers may work better in different people and for different problems, so you may need to try more than one before finding the best one for you.
Skin resurfacing techniques are designed to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, get rid of brown spots, reduce sun damage and shrink pores. The level of intensity varies from mild chemical peels to laser resurfacing and laser pulses, and after-effects range from mild redness to peeling and scabbing.
